Apple iPhone Gets 3G and Price Cut

Good marketing, the price is higher!

I think Apple should get a gold star for marketing. Almost all writers (with a few notable exceptions) proudly advertise that the new iPhone is cheaper than the old. It's not! The comparable old iPhone was $399 PLUS a 2-year, $20/month data contract requirement. The new one is $199 PLUS a 2-year, $30/month data contract requirement. If you ignore the timing of the cash flows (which wouldn't have a big impact on the conclusion), the new iPhone is actually more expensive.

For me, I had one of the originals, but was disappointed and am happier with my BJ II. My big issue was lack of applications that I need (that will partially be solve since they finally opened up). There are still some other big limitations like no file storage (and reading of various file formats) -- for example, you can't read a word file unless you e-mail it to yourself and you can't read a pdf file. Also, the on-screen keyboard is subpar.

It's a great iPod, but for my needs, it's not a great pda.

frank of GA @ Jul 11, 2008 13:23:41 PM

Yes, but...

While the iPhone seems to be as wonderful as sliced bread, the trouble is it's still tied to AT&T. AT&T is not the best cell service in the world in terms of connection signal and customer service - especially in my area.

While I've heard rumor Apple has produced a SDK to create applications for the iPhone outside of the browser, I haven't heard that it's really available yet. Further, because of Apple's tendency to 'brick' phones modified with improper code, creating third party apps for the iPhone makes owning one and using one of those apps a risky proposition.

Apple is a bit too 'clingy' over the equipment it maes for my tastes. Should I need a smartphone, I'll be content with something from another company, since I won't quit my (currently unrenewed) cell contract just to get my hands on a new toy that won't work in half the places I, and my trusty e815, DO work.

Fatesrider of CA @ Jun 10, 2008 03:56:07 AM